A labor dispute between transit workers organized under Unifor Local 114 and employer PW Transit has resulted in a strike, impacting the residents of Comox Valley and Campbell River.
The deadlock arises from an inability to reach an agreement despite multiple negotiations and tentative offers.
At the heart of the issue lies the dissatisfaction of 72 workers, including transit operators, HandyDART operators, mechanics, and cleaners, who argue that PW Transit has not presented an adequate wage offer.
PWT is contracted by BC Transit to provide services in Campbell River and Comox Valley, BC and work as transit operators, handy dart operators, mechanics, and cleaners.
The strike notice, issued after failed negotiations, went into effect at 4:30 a.m. on Friday, suspending transit services in both regions except for essential HandyDART appointments.
Residents, approximately 72,000 in the Comox Valley as of 2021, now face disruptions in their daily commute and accessibility.
This strike comes after previous attempts to reconcile differences.
.@PWTransit bus services will be completely withdrawn in Comox Valley and Campbell River, B.C., as of Fri., Dec. 15 at 4:30 a.m., after contract negotiations failed between the company and members of Unifor Local 114.https://t.co/vHNWyoA7bd
— Unifor (@UniforTheUnion) December 13, 2023
The union bargaining committee and PW Transit had arrived at two separate tentative agreements, both of which were rejected by the union members. The most recent proposal suggested a 15.5 percent wage increase over three years, a figure that failed to appease the workers.
In response to the strike, affected customers who purchased monthly passes have been directed to seek refunds. Those holding December monthly passes can request refunds from City Hall, while 30-day pass holders will receive pro-rated refunds based on their usage.
Passengers who bought 30-day passes in Umo are advised to contact (877) 380-8181 for their refund processing.
A central point of contention highlighted by the union is the claim that transit workers in the Comox Valley are remunerated less than their counterparts in other parts of the province. This discrepancy in pay has been a focal point in negotiations.
The situation remains at an impasse, impacting both the transit workers and the communities they serve. As the strike persists, discussions are expected to continue between the union and PW Transit in a bid to find common ground and reach a resolution that satisfies both parties.
The transit workers’ strike in Comox Valley and Campbell River underscores the significance of fair compensation and working conditions, emphasizing the critical role transit employees play in maintaining essential services within the community.
